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Art and culture activities in Philadelphia

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Art and culture activities led by local experts

Discover unique experiences hosted by inspiring locals.

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5 out of 5 average rating, 3 reviews

An arborist's tour of Fairmount Park's historic gardens

Join me, an urban forester and environmentalist, for an exploration of one of Philadelphia’s most treasured green spaces - Fairmount Park! You’ll visit botanical landmarks and uncover the stories behind unique trees and plants that highlight fascinating aspects of the city’s history. • Explore the lush indoor greenhouse at the Horticulture Center before visiting the Pavilion in the Trees, an interactive art installation nestled in a woodland canopy that offers insight into the park’s ongoing restoration projects. • Admire the serene Shofuso Japanese House and Garden and the Centennial Arboretum's remarkable trees including beautiful cherry blossoms in early spring. • Marvel at Michaux Grove’s towering oaks, planted in the 1870s along with others for the Centennial Exposition, before we walk back to the Horticulture Center. You’ll leave this nature walk inspired by the stories of trees and plants that connect the past, present, and future of this legendary city.

5 out of 5 average rating, 5 reviews

Create a tintype portrait with a photographer

Create your own 3x4" tintype portrait and learn about the medium’s roots in 19th century Philadelphia. We’ll also explore the daguerreotype and the evolution of wet plate photography. • I’ll share a brief history of photography and teach you about camera functions and composition. I’ll also demonstrate the chemical processes that create images. • You’ll then sit for a portrait while I explain the chemical reactions involved. Weather permitting, this part of the experience will take place outside, at nearby Fishtown landmarks. • Finally, you’ll get hands-on experience varnishing and curing your own portrait and mounting it on a Philadelphia-themed mat 5x7". You’ll leave with your tintype portrait to take home, as well as my recommendations for other activities in the area.

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Walk through Old City with an architectural historian

The buildings of Philadelphia’s Old City tell many stories about the history of the United States and its growth from an English colony to an early republic. Join me, an architect, for a history walk through this historic neighborhood to explore the evolution of American architectural styles. Most tours are Private, but please contact me if you are two or more guests and I can make them public. • Begin in the charming, narrow streets and Georgian and Federal-style homes of Elfreth’s Alley, which offer a glimpse into 18th-century domestic life. • You’ll walk through the neighborhood to sites like the First Bank of the United States and the nearby Merchants’ Exchange, which showcase the growing financial power of this new country. • Our walk will culminate at Independence Hall, a pivotal building in American history, representing the birth of the nation and a landmark of Georgian design. You’ll learn how the architectural styles in Old City reflect the historical significance of Philadelphia itself.

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Tour the Rodin Garden with a renowned ice sculptor

Join a famous ice sculptor on a journey through the Rodin Museum Garden, for a unique take on Auguste Rodin’s masterpieces. Along the way, you’ll step into the artist’s shoes, learning about his inspirations, struggles, and revolutionary approach to sculpture. • We’ll begin at the garden entrance, where you’ll get an overview of Rodin’s life, unique casting techniques, and artistic philosophy, as well as a brief history of the museum, which opened in 1929. • You’ll visit the garden’s eight sculptures including many of Rodin’s most iconic works: Learn about the various interpretations of The Thinker, the overarching themes of love, loss, and damnation of The Gates of Hell, and the historical context of The Burghers of Calais, a depiction of the sacrifice of citizens during the Hundred Years’ War. •Throughout the tour, we’ll delve into the symbolism, emotional depth, and repeated themes of the artist’s work. You’ll gain a deeper understanding of Rodin’s genius and why he’s considered the founder of modern sculpture. •The tour also explores the elegant design of the French garden, including a beautiful reflecting pool. It’s a serene setting that perfectly complements the sculptures and encourages contemplation. You'll leave with a newfound appreciation for Rodin’s talent and the universally resonating power of his work.

5 out of 5 average rating, 2 reviews

Uncover Philadelphia's hidden history with an archaeologist

History isn’t just written in books—it’s also buried beneath our feet. Join me on a journey through Philadelphia’s past, where every excavation uncovers forgotten truths about America’s founding. This immersive tour peels back the layers of the city’s most iconic sites, revealing the stories often left out of textbooks. • First, we’ll explore the site that reshaped our understanding of early America: the remnants of George Washington’s presidential mansion. Here, we’ll delve into the archaeological excavation that unearthed the living quarters of the enslaved people who labored there. • Next, the Liberty Bell, considered a symbol of freedom, has layers of secrets beneath its surface. Discover the untold stories behind this national symbol and the complexities behind America’s cherished myths. • Walk among the forgotten and uncover the city’s darker past at Washington Square, where thousands of Revolutionary War soldiers and yellow fever victims lie in unmarked graves. • Step into the remnants of Benjamin Franklin’s home and discover the private struggles of a founding father, from family drama to personal failures. These excavations reveal a side of Franklin rarely shown in history books. As we wrap up on Market Street, you’ll reflect on the stories unearthed along the way and walk away with a deeper, more nuanced understanding of Philadelphia and the people who shaped it

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Tag along to muralist-curated Latino street art

Travel the historic and cultural path behind South Philly's socially engaged public art. Absorb the scene Meet at the Progress of Women mural for an introduction. Look around Listen to urban art stories on the way to Industrious Light. Embrace revolution Chronicle Latino identity and dissent at the Art Sanctuary. Develop technique Outline how a mural comes to life, from idea to completion. Reflect on community Discuss the walk with the group at Antes de la Iluvia.

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Trace Philadelphia's transit legacy

Follow rail lines above and below ground to uncover Philadelphia’s transit evolution. Meet at the station Discuss 30th Street Station and its railroad history. Trundle to Market Trolley along Market Street's transit past and present. Tunnel to City Hall Walk the underground path and chat about Philly's trains. Continue to SEPTA HQ Re-emerge and continue to SEPTA headquarters. Remember the Reading View the US's last surviving train shed at Reading Terminal.

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4.95 out of 5 average rating, 60 reviews

A Toast to History--Behind the Scenes at Carpenters' Hall

You’ll get a private, after-hours tour of historic Carpenters’ Hall, the site of the First Continental Congress in 1774 and the birthplace of American democracy. First we’ll show you the main hall where the Congress met, where you’ll see original artifacts from the period and a detailed model showing the construction of Carpenters’ Hall. Then it’s up to our second floor, which is off limits to regular visitors, where you’ll see our gorgeous 19th-century library and get to explore some of our rare books and other items from our collection. We’ll close with questions and a scotch tasting to toast the continued good health of our visitors, the Carpenters’ Company and the importance of history. The scotch is curtesy of ImpEx Beverages. Each guest will also receive a copy of “Meeting Place of History,” a fully illustrated booklet about Carpenters’ Hall.

4.85 out of 5 average rating, 1103 reviews

Philadelphia History, Highlights, & Revolution Walking Tour

On this tour, we’ll explore Independence National Historical Park and the Old City neighborhood to see a plethora of historical landmarks! Along the way, your guide will keep you posted on the history of these sites and fill you in on all kinds of useful info for your visit to Philly. We’ll see Carpenters Hall, where the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania was founded. Next, we’ll head to the Museum of American Revolution, which offers an incredible look at the stories, artifacts, and people that shaped the American Revolution. We’ll go inside to see a presentation of George Washington’s War Tent ( when your tour is over, you’ll be able to get a discounted ticket to see the rest of the museum). As we walk through Old City, we’ll also pass by some favorite sites such as Elfreth’s Alley (the oldest continuously-occupied residential street in the entire US), showcasing incredible architecture dating back to the early 1700s, the Betsy Ross House, named after a famous seamstress and flag maker who is said to have sewn the first ever American flag, Benjamin Franklin’s Grave (bring a penny to toss!), and the outdoor President’s House Landmark where Washington and Adams lived.

5 out of 5 average rating, 19 reviews

Badass Women's History Tour of Philadelphia

Come one, come all and join us on this unique tour of Philadelphia. Walk alongside the Badass women who formed this city of sisterly love. Uncover the incredible entrepreneurs, doctors, politicians, artists, and activists that have made the city what it is today. Come hear the untold stories you won’t get anywhere else.

4.97 out of 5 average rating, 216 reviews

The Black Journey- Philadelphia Black History Walking Tour

The tour will commence at the Independence Visitor's Center with an introduction to the topic of Black History during the colonial period. You will hear about the role that Black Americans played in the founding of the nation. The group will continue to the President’s House and hear about the 9 enslaved people who were held there. The group will hear about Martha Washington's handmaid who ran away to escape slavery. At the next stop you will see where The Fugitive Slave Act 1793 was passed. The next stop is Congo Square where people of African descent held celebrations. It is also a potter's field where free and enslaved Africans are still buried to this day. The next stop is Mother Bethel AME Church. There is where the African Methodist Episcopal Church was established and is the oldest piece of real estate owned by people of African descent in the United States. You will hear about the liberation of a woman whose owner attempted to abduct her back into slavery and the trial of her rescuers. You will also see the traditional sites of Independence Hall, liberty bell, Congress Hall, and much more Other things to note Masks are required. We will be walking approximately 1.5 miles for the tour on uneven and cobblestoned surfaces. Please wear comfortable and sturdy footwear. We will continue the tour during light rain.

4.95 out of 5 average rating, 109 reviews

Guided Food Tour of Philadelphia's Italian Market

On this tour, we'll explore the country’s oldest and largest everyday open-air market - the 9th Street Italian Market - for some authentic, Philly foodie action. We’ll stroll through vibrant fruit stalls (with unbelievable prices!), past the fragrant bakeries, into various shops and unique stores, and peeking down hidden alleys covered in fantastical street art. You’ll get the chance to meet some store owners and hear their personal stories of food, history, and community. With a local guide leading the way, you’ll have an expert and an Italian Market-lover right there with you and they’ll make sure to tell you the not-so-common stories of one of the most colorful neighborhoods in Philadelphia. Of course, you’ll be sampling plenty of delicious food on this food tour! Throughout the tour, we’ll try several different dishes, including cannoli, tomato pie, and tacos! Your guide will also introduce you to other Italian Market staples and immigrant-inspired fare, savoring the flavors of the market as you make your way down this iconic street. This market has survived the passing decades by welcoming vendors from around the world and, today, remains a popular destination for tourists and locals alike - and you’ll definitely understand why by the end of our time together. So, come explore one of the most unique, thriving, and diverse areas of the City of Brotherly Love with us!

4.87 out of 5 average rating, 160 reviews

Philadelphia Murals and Street Art Tour with Magic Gardens

There’s so much more to Philadelphia than American history - some of the most incredible public art is on display when you venture into South Philly! On this tour, you'll stroll the streets and alleys of the Bella Vista and Queen Village neighborhoods. Throughout this area, artists have (and continue to) make their mark with murals of all shapes, sizes, and themes, dazzling mosaics, and awesome 3D installations. You’ll notice the general creativity of the residents of these neighborhoods with brightly painted homes, eccentric and exciting stores and shops, and wild community gardens. Your guide will explain the history of each piece and how they blend together into a magical tapestry that drapes across the entire city. One of the main attractions on this tour is admission to the Philadelphia Magic Gardens - a trip into Wonderland. This incredible 3D art installation is the life's work of Isaiah Zagar - and where he still works regularly. Merging the profound with the ridiculous, the philosophical with the everyday, Zagar captures the imagination with his work - showing us how many men's trash can become our collective treasure. Once we arrive, you'll have as much time as you want to explore the space. When your official tour time is up, you're welcome to stay for longer, or venture out onto South Street for a different type of colorful experience.

4.98 out of 5 average rating, 259 reviews

Discovering Colonial Philadelphia

Every building has a story to tell, from the materials, technology, and styles favored when it was constructed, to the people who designed, built, lived and worked there. Events of historic proportion take place in and around buildings as well. Come with me on this journey to discover all the secrets each building on our tour is waiting to tell us. We will be walking through Old City, visiting the oldest continuously inhabited residential street in the United States, and seeing the same buildings the Founding Fathers worked and worshiped in. Whether your interest is architecture, American History, visiting the places where Ben Franklin and George Washington lived and worked, or humming a tune from the Hamilton play as we experience Philadelphia as the Capitol of the United States, this tour is for you! This tour is also great for groups, teams and team building! Most tours are Private, but please contact me if you are two or more guests and I can make them public. Other things to note: Bring cameras, water and snacks that you like, or there are plenty of stores along the way. A hat and comfortable shoes are also a good idea to wear.

4.93 out of 5 average rating, 151 reviews

Phillytecture

With over a 300 year history, from the Revolutionary War to its revitalization in the past 50 years, come experience Philadelphia with me. This is an historic events tour with an architectural twist. Every building has a story to tell, from the materials, technology, and styles favored when it was constructed, to the people who designed, built, lived and worked there. Events of historic proportion take place in and around buildings as well. Come with me on this journey to discover all the secrets each building on our tour is waiting to tell us. This tour is also great for groups, teams and team building! We will be walking through Old City and Society Hill, visiting the oldest continuously inhabited residential street in the United States, and seeing the same buildings the Founding Fathers worked and worshiped in. Whether your interest is architecture, American History, visiting the places where Ben Franklin and George Washington lived and worked, or humming a tune from the Hamilton play as we experience Philadelphia as the Capitol of the United States, this tour is for you! Most tours are Private, but please contact me if you are two or more guests and I can make them public. Other things to note: Bring cameras, water and snacks that you like, or there are plenty of stores along the way. A hat and comfortable shoes are also a good idea to wear.

5 out of 5 average rating, 17 reviews

Espresso & Latte Art Class

Learn how to prepare espresso AND make latte art! We will go through the basics on how to achieve a great tasting espresso recipe. Then we will use those espresso coffees to make cappuccinos and also learn latte art techniques. This is a fun and interactive class for beginners and anyone who would like to learn how to create milk based drinks or improve their latte art skills.

4.95 out of 5 average rating, 135 reviews

Hamilton - The Tour where it Happens!

Alexander Hamilton - Revolutionary War hero, Washington's aide-de-camp, member of the Constitutional Convention, author of the Federalist Papers, first Secretary of the Treasury - the list goes on and on. Hamilton spent a good deal of time here in Philadelphia (some even with his short lived mistress Maria Reynolds), and we explore his life and the places here. We will meet a cast of characters along the way, such as George Washington, John Adams, Ben Franklin, Thomas Jefferson, and James Madison, among others. Come join me on this fun filled tour into the life and times of one of the truly remarkable Founding Fathers. We will be listening to 9 shortened songs from the musical, so come and sing along if you know the words. If you haven't seen the play, this we be an excellent introduction! This tour is also great for groups, teams and team building! You know you want to be on the tour where it happens, the tour where it happens. Just sign up and, click BOOM! Most tours are Private, but please contact me if you are two or more guests and I can make them public. Other things to note: Bring cameras, water and snacks that you like, or there are plenty of stores along the way. A hat and comfortable shoes are also a good idea to wear.

Art and culture activities in Philadelphia

Art and culture activities led by local experts

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